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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in Gaithersburg, MD

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$95 - $143/hr

This role offers experienced software developers the opportunity to leverage their technical acumen ... Conduct rigorous software product and process assessments of contractor deliverables on behalf of ...

Software Engineer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$115K - $251K/yr

We're hiring Software Engineers ranging from entry-level through senior/principal-level ... These considerations include, but are not limited to, contracted rates, education, certification(s ...

Our Reston team is hiring a Software Engineer to help build and mature technically sophisticated ... VEVRAA Federal Contractor

We're hiring Software Engineers ranging from entry-level through senior/principal-level ... These considerations include, but are not limited to, contracted rates, education, certification(s ...

The Satellite Systems Software Engineer will partner with multi-Agency and multi-Contractor team of system engineers and subject matter experts to effectively plan, organize, and execute all ...

Cloud Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Cloud Software EngineerOASYS, INC., a Leading-Edge Government contractor, is seeking applicants for a Cloud Software Engineer to support our customer in Chantilly, VA.We work with the SDA, end users ...

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Paas Software Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Paas Software Engineer Gromelski and Associates, Inc. (GAI) partners with prime contractors to provide professional services. Key service areas include Engineering Design and Documentation; Software ...

We anticipate future opportunities for a Software Engineer III who wants to grow with the Company ... Professional Engineering License EOE/M/F/ Disability/Vet VEVRAA Federal Contractor #CJ Employment ...

We anticipate future opportunities for a Software Engineer IV who wants to grow with the Company ... Professional Engineering License EOE/M/F/ Disability/Vet VEVRAA Federal Contractor #CJ Employment ...

Flight Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

The Satellite Systems Software Engineer will partner with multi-Agency and multi-Contractor team of system engineers and subject matter experts to effectively plan, organize, and execute all ...

Defense Software Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$140 - $180/hr

... contractors years to develop. You'll tackle problems spanning core software engineering, system ... deployment, hardware integration, and everything in between to ensure mission success. This role is ...

Work performed in contractor facility in Annapolis Junction. Clearance Required: TS/SCI Other ... software solutions by analyzing system performance standards, confer with users or system engineers ...

Showing results 41-60

Software Engineer Contractor information

See Gaithersburg, MD salary details

$69.3K

$160.9K

$224.1K

How much do software engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contractor in Gaithersburg, MD is $160,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $130,900.00 and $188,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software engineer contractor?

Software Engineer Contractors are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to design, develop, and maintain software applications. Unlike full-time employees, they typically work for a predetermined period or on specific projects for a company. Contractors may work independently or through contracting agencies and often have flexibility regarding work hours and location. Their expertise is sought after for specialized tasks, scaling development teams, or covering skill gaps within organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software engineer contractor?

To thrive as a Software Engineer Contractor, you need advanced programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and a solid understanding of software development lifecycles, often backed by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with source control systems (like Git), cloud platforms, and project management tools, as well as proficiency in key programming languages, is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and self-motivation are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and managing project-based workloads. These skills ensure high-quality deliverables, effective client communication, and successful navigation of varied contract environments.

How does the work structure and team integration typically differ for software engineer contractors compared to full-time employees?

As a Software Engineer Contractor, you will often work on specific projects or deliverables within a defined contract period, which may mean less involvement in long-term planning or company-wide initiatives. Contractors are usually integrated into existing development teams, collaborating closely with full-time engineers, project managers, and QA staff, but may have less access to certain internal resources or benefits. While you can expect to contribute to daily stand-ups, code reviews, and agile sprints, the onboarding process and access to proprietary tools or systems may be streamlined for contractors. This role offers valuable exposure to diverse tech stacks and industries, and successful contracts can lead to extended engagements or full-time offers.

What is the difference between Software Engineer Contractor vs Software Engineer Full-Time Employee?

AspectSoftware Engineer ContractorSoftware Engineer Full-Time Employee
CredentialsTypically requires a relevant degree and technical skills; certifications optionalSame as contractor; often prefers ongoing professional development
Work EnvironmentProject-based, flexible hours, often remote or on-siteSteady, long-term employment, usually on-site or hybrid
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech, startups, consulting firmsStandard in large corporations, tech companies, and enterprises
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for short-term or project-based rolesSeeking stable, long-term employment

In summary, Software Engineer Contractors typically work on short-term projects with flexible schedules, while full-time employees enjoy ongoing employment and benefits. Both roles require similar skills and credentials but differ mainly in work arrangement and job stability.

What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Gaithersburg, MD?

For Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Gaithersburg, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Gaithersburg, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Gaithersburg, MD are:

What cities near Gaithersburg, MD are hiring for Software Engineer Contractor jobs?

Cities near Gaithersburg, MD with the most Software Engineer Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contractor job openings in Gaithersburg, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,902 per year, or $77.4 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

Information Systems and Cyber Division (ISCD)staff couple the latest in information system technologies, such as elastic compute clouds, containerization, microservices, real-time operating systems, and visualization frameworks, with expertise in cyber security, software architecture, software engineering, data science, Artificial Intelligence, process improvement, and software development to deliver responsive, resilient, high-performance software intensive systems to our Intelligence Community, DoD, and civilian customers.

The Software Process and Architecture Department is seeking an accomplished Member of Technical Staff withdemonstratedexpertisein software development, process engineering, and technical program support. This role offers experienced software developers the opportunity toleveragetheir technical acumen while supporting critical Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, and civilian space system acquisitions.

The ideal candidate will bring a proventrack recordin software development, combined with strong analytical capabilities and a commitment to engineering excellence. This position offers unique exposure to large-scale, software-intensive systems across the full acquisition lifecycle.

Work Model:Full-time, 100% onsite in Chantilly, VA

What You'll Be Doing

  • Contribute to the development and delivery of Aerospace internal software projects, applying industry best practices and modern development methodologies

  • Provide expert software process guidance and technical consultation for internal software development initiatives

  • Conduct comprehensive reviews of project plans, progress reports, and technical deliverables for software development projects

  • Review, tailor, andoptimizesoftware process standards for application in software-intensive system acquisition programs

  • Develop and refine software process maturity assessment instruments and evaluation frameworks

  • Conduct rigorous software product and process assessments of contractor deliverables on behalf of Aerospace customers

  • Perform detailed reviews of software acquisition documentation, including development plans, test strategies, measurement frameworks, architectural designs, and quality assurance reports

  • Define and specify software measurements, metrics, and key performance indicators aligned with program objectives

  • Analyze and interpret software metrics data, providing actionable insights and strategic recommendations to program office stakeholders

  • Collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams in a dynamic matrix organization

What You Need to be Successful - Member of Technical Staff- Job Family

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a closely related STEM discipline

  • Minimum of two (2) years of professional software development experience

  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, withdemonstratedability to produce technical documentation and deliver professional presentations

  • Outstanding interpersonal skills with proven ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders

  • Strong technical foundation with clearlydemonstratedexpertiseacross the software development lifecycle, including:

    • Requirements specification and analysis

    • Software architecture and design

    • Implementation and unit testing

    • Integration and system testing

    • Regression testing strategies

    • Software configuration management

    • Quality assurance practices

      • Strong collaborative mindset with ability to work effectively in cross-functional, matrix organizational structures

      • Demonstrated commitment to continuous learning and professional development

      • Willingness toacquireand apply departmental standards, methods, and techniques, including software process standards (e.g., CMMI, ISO/IEC 15504), process assessment methodologies, measurement frameworks (GQM, PSM), and process improvement approaches (Six Sigma, Lean)

      • Willing to travel occasionally to work location or customer site/domestically/internationally approx. 10%

      • This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

      How You Can Stand Out

      It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

      • Master's degree or higher in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a closely related technical discipline

      • Active DoD Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance

      • Hands-on experience withDevSecOpspractices and toolchains

      • Proficiencyin cloud-native development and deployment (AWS, Azure, GCP)

      • Experience applying artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques in software development contexts

      • Practical experience interpreting software metrics to drive process improvements and organizational change

      • Experience conducting end-to-end modeling study engagements, including:

        • Proposal development and stakeholder engagement

        • Process and data elicitation

        • Model development (input analysis, statistical runs, output analysis)

        • Verification and validation activities

      We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

      (Min - Max)

      $95,200.00 - $142,800.00Pay Basis: Annual

      Leadership Competencies

      Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

      • Operate Strategically
      • Lead Change
      • Engage with Impact
      • Foster Innovation
      • Deliver Results

      Ways We Reward Our Employees

      During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

      Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

      • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

      • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

      • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

      • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

      • Flexible spending accounts

      • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

      • Relocation assistance

      • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

      • Education assistance programs

      • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

      We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

      Equal Opportunity Commitment

      The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailatpeoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.